Top 10: 4x4 performance cars
It began in the ’60s, became widespread in the ’80s and is still a major part of the performance car market. Yes, we’re talking about the all-wheel drive road car, the machine that combines strong performance with the kind of tenacious grip that leaves two-wheel drive rivals struggling to keep up.
Another all-wheel drive hatchback designed primarily for rallying, this ultimate 323 also made a great road car. With its 1597cc 16-valve twin-cam engine pushed to almost 150bhp via the wonders of turbocharging and intercooling, it was a rapid machine – with 125mph flat out, and 0-60 in 7.9 seconds. Not bad for a car that cost just £11,000 in Britain when new.
Mazda’s 4x4 set-up (with drive split 50/50) was relatively uncomplicated but worked well, giving the 323 a brilliant grip/handling combination in just about all conditions. Surely this is one of the unsung heroes of the hot hatch world?
peter hughes on 23 April 2018
and the Porsche 959 .............????Add a comment